I am a new user doing a study of a steel weldment with Solidworks simulation. Linear static analysis with large deformation shows that the Von Mises stresses are greater than yield and a test result support that prediction. I would like to perform a non-linear analysis that does the following

1. Load the part such that yielding occurs and record the part geometry as well as stresses and deformations

2. Unload the the deformed part and allow it to spring back to its new position. This will be compaed with a test item

What are the capabilities of this package? Can I perform a 2-step non-linear analysis that predicts the plastic deformed shape when loaded and the final shape when the load is removed.? This is similar to predicting springback for bent. sheet metal.

Hi Bruce: Yes here is a short tutorial on nonlinear metal yield, load and unload with permanent set. It is on GoEngineer's YouTube channel (search on "Metal Yield Tutorial" in Simulation playlist) (in case this link does not work).

Is there a rule of thumb in estimating a permanent set of a beam in a linear static analysis without stress-strain curve by comparing yield strength and Von Mises stress distribution? I want to develop a quick and rough method to make a judgment on a new window design whether it is going to pass or fail based on the value of permanent set.

Hi Jong: i am not aware of one that involves stress. However, I have read analysts use strain (you can plot strain). For example, I have seen a rough "rule of thumb" for steel that permanent offset (or plasticity onset and therefore permanent set) can occur at a 2% strain (extensional strain at 0.02). That's for "steels". If you run linear-elastic analysis, it can at least tell you when strain gets to 2%. I hope that helps. -Tony